Red Salmon Complex

Red Salmon Complex, Six Rivers NF, USFS. IMT 2 (CA Team 12). Fourteen miles northeast of Willow Creek, CA. Timber. Moderate fire behavior with backing, flanking and creeping. Several communities threatened. Area, road and trail closures in effect.

October 21, 2020 at 9:26 AM

On 10/17, there was an intrusion into the restricted airspace over the fire by a drone. Temporary Flight Restrictions remain over the entire Red Salmon fire area until further notice. This includes drones. Remember: If you fly, we can’t.

Yesterday: Fire activity continued in the South Fork of the Salmon River, Methodist Creek, Plummer Creek, and the East Fork of the New River. Fire was seen backing down toward Plummer creek to the confluence of the Salmon river, cleaning up unburned fuels in a steady progression in islands within the fire’s interior. The fire crews assigned to Devil’s Backbone completed their mission successfully and hiked back out of the area. Two crews will remain in Division P doing line restoration and suppression repair work alongside a heritage consultant.

Weather and Fire Behavior: A weak cold front moved into the area overnight Tuesday. This front will lower temperatures and increase humidity values until Thursday morning when a drier air mass will filter in and drop humidity levels once again. Fuel moisture levels will remain low allowing the fire to remain active for the near future with moderate fire behavior possible. Rain is not forecast in the immediate future. Smoke impacting the area remains likely due to a light inversion over the fire. For information on smoke impact, go to www.airnow.gov.

Today’s Operations: Crews will continue monitoring lines along Plummer Creek. In division P, crews will continue suppression efforts and conduct repair work where possible. Crews will also be active in the Salmon Ridge and Fawn ridge areas for suppression repair. Back haul of equipment and other resources will continue in the communities of Forks of the Salmon, Cecilville, Denny, and other private ranches, inholdings and properties.

Fire suppression repair is occurring both within the Wilderness and on all flanks of the fire where containment has been achieved. As fire containment increases, crews shift from suppression tactics to suppression repair work and the collection and return of the miles of hose, water pumps, and portable water tanks back to fire camp for cleaning, packaging and shipping.

October 18, 2020 at 11:11 AM

Yesterday, there was an intrusion into the restricted airspace over the fire by a drone. Temporary Flight Restrictions remain over the entire Red Salmon fire area until further notice. This includes drones. Remember: If you fly, we can’t.

Yesterday: Fire activity continued in the South Fork of the Salmon River, Methodist Creek, Plummer Creek, and the East Fork of the New River. A previous spot fire outside of containment lines north of Barron Creek began reburning as fuel drying continued. Firefighter’s combined ground based suppression efforts along with aerial water drops to cool that hotspot.

Weather and Fire Behavior: Unseasonably warm temperatures will continue today. Fuel moisture levels continue to decline allowing the fire to remain active for the near future, with moderate fire behavior. No rain is forecast in the immediate future. With the dry weather, higher elevations with unburned islands are likely to ignite. Smoke impacting the area remains likely. For information on smoke impact, go to www.airnow.gov.

Today’s Operations: Along the western flank of the fire, crews will continue to monitor containment line in the Colgrove Branch drainage and repair fireline no longer needed. On the northeastern flank, crews will patrol and mop up along the Salmon River to keep fire south of the river. On the southeastern flank, firefighters are securing fireline to keep fire east of Miller Ranch and west of the East Fork New River. Structure defense crews are removing structure defense systems where the fire threat has been mitigated and maintaining systems where the threat remains.

Fire suppression repair (restoring fireline to prevent soil erosion) is being completed within the Wilderness and on all flanks of the fire where fire has been contained. Resource advisors help direct this work to protect sensitive natural and cultural resources. As fire containment increases, a big task for crews is to gather and return the miles of hose, water pumps, and portable water tanks back to fire camp for cleaning, packaging and shipping.

October 14, 2020 at 8:49 AM

Today at 6pm Northwest Team 10 completes its tour and is relieved by Cal Fire Team 12. A ”Red Flag Warning” has been issued and will go into effect on Wednesday at 11pm for Thursday and Friday. This means weather conditions will continue to get warmer, drier and windier with the winds coming out of the Northeast. Temporary Flight Restrictions remain over the entire Red Salmon fire area, which includes drones. Remember: If you fly, we can’t. Please drive slowly around fire resources on Cecilville Road.

Weather and Fire Behavior: Weather forecasts indicate an increase in northeast winds coupled with hot and dry weather arriving in the area as early as Wednesday night and continuing through Friday that will likely produce critical fire conditions. Temperatures will start increasing from the 70s to the 80s, humidity dropping and sustained winds 20 mph with gusts up to 30 mph later in the week. Skies should remain relatively clear with isolated areas of smoke near the fire today. The positive effects of last weekend’s rain have waned and over the next few days fine fuels such as leaves and grass have dried out.

Today’s Operations: Crews will continue to monitor and improve containment lines on the Colgrove Branch drainage along the western flank of the fire. On the eastern side, crews will continue to hold the fire south of the Salmon River. Additional smoke may be visible as crews continue to conduct defensive burning in the Methodist and Plummer Creek areas bringing the fire down to the Salmon River. In the Forks of Salmon and adjacent areas where there are containment lines, crews will continue removing equipment. The fire is holding near Denny and Miller Ranch, with crews continuing to improve the line and monitor. In areas where the fire is contained, fire suppression repairs are underway to restore hand and dozer fire lines, roads, staging areas, safety zones and drop points in order to minimize erosion. Repair and road work includes installing water bars and pulling light brush debris over disturbed soils.

October 12, 2020 at 8:10 AM

The results of the recent rain continued to help firefighters construct and improve fire containment lines, moving containment from 40 to 55%. The clear skies also allowed aircraft to fly reconnaissance missions and provided crews with bucket water drops to assist with fire suppression efforts along the eastern flank. The fire remained relatively quiet overnight.

Weather and Fire Behavior: Saturday’s steady rainfall has helped moderate fire behavior for several days. Temperatures will start slowly increasing up to 70 degrees, humidity as low as 25%, winds will be light at 5-10mph. Weather forecasts indicate an increase in northeast winds coupled with hot and dry weather arriving in the area as early as Wednesday evening and continuing through Friday. Skies should remain relatively clear with isolated areas of smoke.

Today’s Operations: Crews will continue to improve containment lines and mop-up on the Calgrove Branch area along the western flank of the fire. On the eastern side, indirect line construction will be underway near Ray’s Peak. As long as conditions permit, water dropping helicopters will support fire suppression efforts on the ground. Additional smoke may be visible as crews continue to conduct defensive burning in the Methodist and Plummer Creek areas.

In areas where the fire is contained, fire suppression repairs are underway to restore hand and dozer fire lines, roads,staging areas, safety zones and drop points in order to minimize erosion. Repair work can include installing water bars and pulling woody debris over disturbed soils.

October 10, 2020 at 10:41 AM

Yesterday, crews continued to improve structure protection around Godfrey, Blue Ridge and Black Bear Ranches. Firefighters patrolled and mopped-up to hold the fire along Salmon Creek and the Cecilville Road. Firefighters are reinforcing indirect lines to protect the communities of Cecilville, Summerville, and Denny.

Safety: Wet and Slippery roads are predicted in the vicinity of the fire today. Please slow down and drive safely in the area where firefighting activities are occurring. Temporary closures of the Cecilville Road due to firefighting operations could be enacted. A Temporary Flight Restriction remains over the entire Red Salmon fire area, which includes drones. Remember: If you fly, we can’t.

Weather and Fire Behavior: Today, there is a 70% chance of wetting rain of up to 0.25 inch on the fire. With the wet weather, cooler temperatures and gusty southwest and west winds the smoke that has persisted in the region is expected to clear, at lease temporarily.

Today’s Operations: North and northeast flank: Crews will improve, monitor and maintain structure protection systems around the communities of Godfrey, Blue Ridge and Black Bear. Firefighters will continue to mop-up along the Cecilville Road and conduct defensive burning between Methodist and John Creek drainages. In areas where the fire is contained, suppression repair plans are being made to restore areas such as hand and dozer fire lines, roads, trails, staging areas, safety zones and drop points to minimize potential soil erosion.

Southeast and south flank: As conditions allow crews will conduct defensive burning in some areas and continue mop-up and securing lines along the East Fork New River and the New River. Structure protection around Miller Ranch is a high priority for firefighters.

West flank: Mop-up and secure line in the Colgrove Branch drainage and begin fire suppression repair.

October 5, 2020 at 8:02 AM

Communities surrounding the Red Salmon Fire Complex continue to encounter smoky conditions. A persistent ridge of high pressure remains over the fire area, causing the smoke to linger. Smoke remains thick over the active fire area and is mixing with smoke from the August Complex Fire. Temperatures will range in the lower 70s in the valleys lower 80s in higher elevations.

In the northeastern area, fire is steadily backing along the South Fork of the Salmon River to Cecilville Road, filling in near Knownothing Creek as planned. Crews have been mitigating hazard trees, debris, and other potential dangers. Use caution when driving in this area, as roads may be temporarily closed. Crews continue with structure protection in these communities.

In the Cecilville area, firefighters are preparing to widen fire containment lines from the wilderness boundary, to St. Clair Creek, and along Barefoot Ridge. Dozers have successfully completed about a mile of containment line down China Ridge toward Summerville. Firefighters continue working to protect structures in the area of Godfrey/Black Bear/Blue Ridge.

As weather conditions permit, crews are working to perform defensive burning operations near the east branch of New River and continue to implement structure protection around Miller Ranch, in the southern fire area.

The fire is continuing to line up with Horse Linto Creek, in the southwestern fire area. The fire has been holding well in this area for the past few days. An additional fire control line is being constructed along Lone Pine Ridge.

October 4, 2020 at 10:48 AM

Smoke from interior burning and defensive firing, intermingled with that from the August Fire Complex, continues to blanket communities in the area. Light, variable winds, and the continued inversion, prevent smoke dispersion causing poor air quality and visibility restricting availability of Air Support. Motorists should use caution when driving, particularly on narrow, winding roads.

No significant weather changes are expected. Low temperatures should range from the mid-50s to the mid-60s with highs from the lower 70s to the lower 80s. Minimum relative humidity should be in the 20s in the higher elevations with mainly 30s elsewhere.

Crews continued defensive firing along Hotelling Ridge, staying just ahead of the main body of the fire, which is backing down toward Cecilville Road. The fire has filled in around Knownothing Creek and is approaching the South Fork of the Salmon River as planned. Additional crews have been brought in to continue structure protection in the Godfrey/Black Bear/Blue Ridge area and around Cecilville. Firefighters have identified areas to put in line to protect and defend Summerville.

An additional dozer was brought in to strengthen and aid ongoing fireline construction between Miller Ranch and the fire. Crews are using defensive firing along Bake Oven Ridge to reinforce the line. Over the next few days, the fire is still holding well along the trail near Horse Linto Creek.

Crews have constructed fire control line around the slop over near Colgrove Branch of Mill Creek.

Strategic firing operations are planned today to strength the lines. Road repair is ongoing in the northern area of the fire.

September 30, 2020 at 10:12 AM

Community meetings will be held at 11 a.m. today, outside Forks of Salmon School and at 1:30 p.m., outside the Ceilville Community Center. Planning is underway for a community meeting in the Hoopa Valley, date and time TBA.

Temperatures are expected to range from the 80s in higher elevations, to the 90s in the valleys. The warmer temperatures and wind directions are causing increased smoke, which is combining with smoke from the August Complex Fire. The smoke may persist for several days, causing lower temperatures.

On the eastern flank, the fire became more active near Hoteling Ridge and Methodist Creek. The fire also pushed to the top of Dees Ridge. Additionally, crews are scouting potential fire control lines near Cecilville Road.

Crews completed a combination of dozer line and handline to control a 100-acre slopover in the western area of the fire, near the Colgrove Branch of Mill Creek.

Within the southern fire area, firefighters are working to hold and mop up fire control lines along Tish Tang Ridge to Box Camp to protect adjacent communities.

The Trinity County Sheriff’s Department (https://www.trinitycounty.org/OES) established an Evacuation Warning for the community of Denny. An Evacuation Warning remains in place for Forks of Salmon (Siskiyou County Sherriff’s office 530-842-8300). All residents and visitors should be prepared to evacuate. A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is in place over the entire Red-Salmon fire area.

September 28, 2020 at 8:47 PM

Extreme fire behavior observed today with short crown runs. Increased fire activity has caused a large slop over that is threatening the community of Hoopa. There is a Red Flag Warning in effect today for gusty winds and low humidity. Evacuation Warning remains for Forks of the Salmon. Threats to Federal and Tribal timberlands, and historic and culturally significant sites. Road, trail, and area closures in effect. NW Type 2, Team 10 (Lawson) in command.

September 28, 2020 at 3:35 PM

Per the Trinity County Sheriff’s Office and the Office of Emergency Services. The area of Zenia is under an Evacuation Order due to erratic fire behavior. There is an immediate threat to life. This is a lawful order please leave now.

September 26, 2020 at 12:17 PM

Firefighters have contained the northwest and west sides of the fire from the Whitney Peak area on the north side to Box Camp on the west side. Along the southwestern and southern flanks, firefighters are successfully conducting firing operations and improving roads to protect the Hoopa Valley Reservation and the communities of Willow Creek and Denny. Structure protection in the Forks of Salmon area continues to be a priority while hand crews, heavy equipment, and firefighting aircraft continue to suppress the fire.

September 24, 2020 at 8:42 AM

The upcoming weather system still remains a critical component for firing/burn-out operations in the Red Salmon Complex. With a high-pressure system moving into the area, temperatures will be in the mid-60s to mid-70s. Portions of the fire will receive between 0.1 to 0.2 inches of rainfall. Burn-out operations are utilizing Unmanned Aerial Systems (drones) to assist crews with ignition efforts in the Knownothing Creek and adjacent drainage area. The drones are able to access lower drainage expanses in steep and rugged terrain. To date, mop up operations along the ridge between Horn Creek and Knownothing Creek are 95% complete. Structural defense work will continue and crews are fully engaged in all active fire areas.

The southeast area of the fire near Grizzly Camp over to Lone Pine Ridge has been prepped for firing operations when weather conditions improve. The fire continues to be active in both the northeast and the southwest. Other areas of the fire continue to have low intensity burning. The Red Salmon Complex will be under the direction of Northwest Incident Management Team 10 effective 6 P.M. Friday. The Complex has been under the management of the South Central Sierra Interagency Incident Management Team 14 (CA IMT 14) for the past 21 days. Combined with its earlier 17 day assignment, CA IMT 14 has been in charge of the incident for a total of 38 days.

September 22, 2020 at 8:43 AM

Firefighters continue to take advantage of favorable weather in order to secure active areas of the Red Salmon Complex fire. Firefighters are using a combined strategy of firing/burn-out operations and containment line construction to control the advancement of the fire.

“We had some rain last Friday, which has slowed down our operational tempo,” Mike Strawhun, incident commander said. “It slowed us down and gave us the opportunity to engage the fire with handlines and dozers.”

Firefighters are looking for opportunities to restrict the fire’s movement in the Nordheimer Drainage toward the Salmon River Road and McNeal Creek. Crews conducted successful burn-out operations in the area Southeast of Forks of Salmon, West of Knownothing Creek and North of Blackberry Creek.

Crews are also providing protection for structures from the Forks of Salmon, east to Hotelling Ridge. Two engine crews have been monitoring the spot fire near Methodist Creek. Initial reports indicate that there has been little-to-no movement, and low intensity burning in this area. Three engines have been patrolling, building containment lines, and mopping up a second spot fire, adjacent to the Hoopa Valley Reservation. Patrols will continue into the evening. Additionally, crews are conducting burn-out operations along Lone Pine Ridge, above Horse Linto Creek, to restrict potential southern spread of the fire. Operations on all areas of the fire are continuing throughout the night.

Weather conditions are expected to remain warm and dry with patchy smoke and temperatures in the upper 60s and 70s. While some temperatures may reach the 80s in the valleys.

The following restrictions and warnings remain in effect: a temporary flight restriction is place in the area Northeast of Orleans, along with an evacuation warning for Forks of Salmon. The Klamath and Six Rivers National Forests remain closed.

Some Shasta-Trinity National Forest lands east of the Red Salmon Fire Complex closure area are open for public use. The use of any ignition source on National Forest System lands is strictly prohibited, including campfires, gas stoves, smoking and outdoor barbeque grills on houseboats. Continuing dry conditions and very limited firefighting resources require visitors to remain vigilant and be prepared to evacuate if a fire starts nearby.

September 20, 2020 at 12:07 PM

Current Situation: Recent light rain on Friday helped crews to make progress and secure additional containment lines. However, drier conditions and increased temperatures this weekend have brought active fire behavior back to the east and southwest flanks of the fire. Burnout operations will continue to help secure the southwest corner of the complex along Tish Tang Ridge and working west and east from a drop point along Lone Pine Ridge. Firefighters working to complete control lines are using these firing operations to increase depth along these lines.

Clearer air over the past several days have allowed air resources to assist ground crews. Helicopters are conducting bucket drops of water on key hot spots and have begun to remove unneeded equipment in the fire area.

Firefighters and equipment remain in Denny and Forks of Salmon completing structure protection. Many more isolated structures have also been addressed in the possibility of fire moving in that direction. Crews in the northeast corner of the complex will continue defensive firing to keep the fire from the Salmon River and Hwy 93.

September 18, 2020 at 8:24 AM

Crews and structure protection remain in Denny and to the northeast in and around Forks of Salmon, where Red Salmon Complex incident managers and USDA Forest Service leadership met with residents Thursday.

“People in Forks of Salmon have active fire to their south and are worried,” said Incident Commander Mike Strawhun. “We have structure protection in the community and crews staffing fireline around the clock. The community and the incident respect that we’re more than fifty days into this complex and everyone is doing their best, even if it’s starting to wear on many of us.”

Suppression resources have been shifted to the southwest corner of the fire to assist the divisions there with line improvement and support burnout operations. Crews continue to utilize recently prepped roads and trails to complete tactical firing operations, as fire is active in Tish Tang Creek and continues backing into Horse Linto Creek.

All National Forests in California are closed. Entry is not permitted. Should the statewide closure not be renewed when it expires September 21st, the area closures on the Klamath, Six Rivers, and Shasta- Trinity National Forests remain until further notice.

Weather: An upper level low will continue to approach the region today. A disturbance moving around this low will lead to increasing clouds and an isolated shower in the afternoon.

September 17, 2020 at 9:12 AM

Though infrared flights show the Red Salmon Complex growing past 100,000 acres, the gain is largely due to burnout operations in the southwest and northeast corners of the fire.

“We’re not letting down our guard,” said Deputy Incident Commander Steve Watkins, “but we’re in a good place. We’re accomplishing our goal of protecting the Hoopa Valley Reservation, Forks of Salmon, and other communities around the complex. We’re getting later in the fire season and hopeful the weather brings relief.”

Fireline on the west flank of the complex is in patrol and mop up status. Crews and equipment have been shifted to the southwest of the complex to secure containment around the corner and east.

Crews and structure protection remain in Denny and to the northeast in and around Forks of Salmon.

A number of hunters on their way to set up camp before the start of the season have been turned away at road closures and other locations. All National Forests in California are closed. Entry is not permitted. Should the statewide closure not be renewed when it expires September 21st, the area closures on the Klamath, Six Rivers, and Shasta-Trinity National Forests remain until further notice.

Weather: An upper level low will continue to approach the region today. A disturbance moving around this low will lead to increasing clouds and an isolated shower in the afternoon, as onshore flow from the Pacific continues leading to cooler temperatures and higher relative humidity today

Air Quality: Air quality is likely to improve, however, Red Salmon Complex smoke will combine with smoke from other fires in the area which could keep parts of the forecast zone in the Unhealthy range.

Area Evacuations: The Siskiyou County Sheriff issued an Evacuation Order for ALL of Forks of Salmon. From Butler Flat to 10 miles east to Forks of Salmon and south to Plummer Creek on Cecilville Rd.

September 16, 2020 at 8:46 AM

Tactical burnout operations will continue today on the Red Salmon Complex. Dozer line along Hostler Ridge to Tish Tang Ridge will serve as the primary line for tactical firing operations to keep fire east of the 10N02 road and Hoopa Reservation boundary. As containment on the west flank of the complex progresses toward completion, attention will focus on extending and improving fireline moving east to protect Willow Creek, Salyer, and other communities along Hwy 299.

Crews and structure protection remain in Denny and to the northeast in and around Forks of Salmon. Containment lines will be repositioned and defensive burnout planned to contain active fire that is working its way toward the confluence of East Fork Knownothing Creek and West Fork Knownothing Creek. The goal is to prevent fire spread north toward Salmon River Road (Hwy 93).

Hunters and other visitors should be aware the closure of all National Forests in California has been extended until September 21st. Entry is not permitted. Should the statewide closure expire, the area closures on the Klamath, Six Rivers, and Shasta-Trinity National Forests remain until further notice.

Weather: Expect smoke near the surface and in valleys. An upper level low will begin to approach the region. Disturbances will move around this low through Thursday, with gusty ridgetop winds at times.

September 15, 2020 at 11:23 AM

Fire continues to spot in the northeast portion of the Red Salmon Complex. The source is active fire in the drainages of Knownothing Creek and Poverty Gulch Creek. Crews have hoselays, sprinklers, and other structure protection measures in place. Containment efforts are focused on preventing fire spread north toward Salmon River Road (Hwy 93).

In the southwest corner of the complex, 1,000 to 1,500 feet of line remains to be tied in with established, burned-off line on the western flank of the fire. Dozer line along Hostler Ridge to Tish Tang Ridge will serve as the primary line for tactical firing operations to contain the fire east of the Hoopa Reservation boundary.

Hunters, visitors, and others should be aware the closure of all National Forests in California has been extended until September 21st. Entry is not permitted. Should the statewide closure expire, the area closures on the Klamath, Six Rivers, and Shasta-Trinity National Forests remain in effect until further notice.

Weather: Clearer air is anticipated today, though areas of smoke will remain across the area, particularly in valleys. Temperatures in the 70s to low 80s are expected, with humidity similar to Monday.

September 14, 2020 at 9:17 AM

A spot fire Sunday in the northeast portion of the Red Salmon Complex required crews to reposition and prompted an evacuation order for Forks of Salmon. Ash and embers were rising from a spot fire on the north side of Knownothing Creek. Personnel could hear fire below but not see it through the blanket of smoke over the complex. The spot remains a threat and crews will adjust lines and conduct burnout operations to slow the fire’s progression and prevent it from spreading further north.

The steady progress of the last few days continued yesterday on the west and south flanks of the fire. Backing fire from burnout operations has added 600 to 1,000 feet of depth downslope of control lines.

Wind conditions prevented burnout operations overnight, though mop up and patrol were accomplished.

Tactical firing operations are planned in the southwest today, extending efforts to prevent fire spread toward the Hoopa Reservation, Willow Creek, and communities along Hwy 299.

Additional lines continue to be built and scouted, while community and structure protection in and around Denny and Forks of Salmon remains in place. Areas on the fire’s east flank and away from communities remain unstaffed due to remoteness and resource limitations.

Weather: Areas of smoke will blanket the fire today. Winds should remain terrain driven at lower elevations, with southerly gusts at times on ridges and in aligned drainages.

Air Quality: Smoke from the Red Salmon Complex will combine with other fires in the area which could keep the levels in the Very Unhealthy and Hazardous AQI range, depending on proximity to the fires.

Area Evacuations: The Trinity County Sheriff’s Office lifted the Evacuation Warning for Denny. The Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Office has issued an Evacuation Order for ALL of Forks of Salmon. From Butler Flat to 10 miles east to Forks of Salmon and south to Plummer Creek on Cecilville Rd.

September 13, 2020 at 8:33 AM

Multiple small victories have been recorded by fire crews in the last several days.

Night shift operations, coupled with cooperative daytime weather, have allowed significant progress to be made on tactical burnout operations along the fire’s west flank. The completed work has strengthened fireline off the 10N02 road. The line adds protection to the Hoopa Reservation and additional firing operations moving southward will further protect Willow Creek, Salyer, and other communities.

Community and structure protection to the south of the fire in Denny and northeast in Forks of Salmon has included brush clearing, hose and sprinkler lays, and outreach. A public meeting was held Saturday in Forks of Salmon to help residents best understand conditions in their area.

Additional fireline is being constructed or scouted elsewhere on the complex. Dozer-line was completed Saturday from Hwy 93 to Hotelling Ridge. Areas on the fire’s east flank and away from communities remain unstaffed due to remoteness and resource limitations.

Weather: Terrain driven winds anticipated at lower elevations, with gusty winds near and just above the higher ridges. Temperatures will be in the 70s.

Air Quality: Smoke from the Red Salmon Complex will combine with other fires in the area which could keep the levels in the Very Unhealthy and Hazardous AQI range, depending on proximity to the fires.

The Trinity County Sheriff’s Office lifted the Evacuation Warning for Denny.

The Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Office has issued an Evacuation Warning for the Red Salmon Complex fire. Warning will be all of Forks Of Salmon, from Butler Flat to ten miles east of Forks Of Salmon and south to Plummer Creek on Cecilville Road.

September 11, 2020 at 9:51 PM

Containment lines will be repositioned to prevent fire spread towards Forks of Salmon community and fire spread north towards Hwy 93. Continue direct attack where safe to do so. Construct indirect line and prepare for burnout.

Hand crews are needed to aid suppression teams in building new line and prepping existing lines created in the suppression effort. The 10N02 road will serve as a primary line for future tactical firing operations to contain the fire’s western and northwestern flanks over to the Hoopa Reservation Boundary.

Crews continued to construct dozer line from Tish Tang Ridge down Lone Pine Ridge towards community of Denny. Mastication equipment will clear fuels in the vicinity of Horse Trail Ridge in anticipation of the firing operations.

September 6, 2020 at 11:20 AM

The Red and Salmon Fires are burning on the Klamath, Six Rivers, and Shasta-Trinity National Forests within Humboldt, Siskiyou, and Trinity Counties. The Hoopa Valley Tribe is now part of the joint delegation of authority with the three National Forests. The Great Basin Incident Management Team 5 continues to also work closely with the Yurok Tribe, the Karuk Tribe, and local community liaisons. Red Fire: 36,831 acres, 19% contained Yesterday’s Events:
• Weak winds caused less active fire activity throughout the fire area, helping to slow fire growth. • Significant amounts of line were cleared around the southwest area of the fire, largely by reopening historical line in that area.
• Crews worked along the 10N02 Road to improve it as a containment line.
• The southwest corner of the fire continued to see growth in the headwaters of Tish Tang Creek and north towards Horse Trail Ridge.
• Fire continued to fill in the unburned area within the fire perimeter at the headwaters of Nordheimer Creek.
• Firefighters continued to patrol the northeast portion of the fire where moderate fire behavior was observed at Nordheimer Creek and China Creek.

Operational Plans for Today:
• Crews will continue to clear historical lines created during the Corral Fire of 2013 near the fire perimeter in the southwest area of the fire.
• The 10N02 Road will continue to serve as a primary line for future tactical firing operations to contain fire east of the Hoopa Valley Reservation, as tactical resources and weather allow.
• Along the northwestern and northeastern flanks of the fire, crews will continue to patrol and mop-up along the containment lines.

Salmon Fire: 807 acres, 79% contained This fire remains in its original footprint. Islands of vegetation inside this area continue to burn as fuels dry out. Weather Over the Fire Hot and dry conditions continue to increase, leading to low relative humidities and critically dry fuels. Light and variable winds with gusts up to 12 mph becoming westerly as the day progresses. The inversion is expected to be weaker, providing for more potential for active fire behavior and higher temperatures. As a dry front approaches, hotter and drier conditions will continue in the area until the front passes. Smoke from fires burning south of here in the state is also expected to impact our area. National Forest Closure Areas

The Red Salmon Fire Forest Closure Area became effective on August 8, 2020 under Forest Supervisor’s orders on the Klamath, Shasta-Trinity, and Six Rivers National Forests. As hunting seasons open, hunters are reminded the closure is in place for their safety as well as the safety of firefighters. Complete closure information is available on InciWeb for the Red Salmon Complex. COVID-19 Community and firefighter safety are a top priority of both the Great Basin Incident Management Team 5 and the National Forests. As such, Team 5 is implementing precautionary practices to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

September 2, 2020 at 9:50 AM

Yesterday’s Events:

• The fire continued to burn into the Tish Tang Drainage. Crews worked in the area to scout opportunities to reopen old line and explore other tactical possibilities.
• The fire began to move east out of the Red Cap Creek drainage towards Devils Backbone, with some spotting across the current handlines.
• Fire fighters continued to patrol the handline along High Point Ridge and noted continued successes in interior burning.
• Structure protection crews continued preparing for defensible actions within communities in the McNeal Creek and Forks of Salmon areas.

Operational Plans for Today:

• Crews will continue to scout locations for new line, as well as old lines that can be reopened, around the fire perimeter near Tish Tang and Linto Ridges. Air operations will support aggressive fire suppression tactics.
• Crews along the Devils Backbone line will further patrol the line and attack spot fires.
• Helicopters and mule pack strings will supply firefighters in remote areas and backhaul trash and supplies.
• Firefighters will patrol the line along High Point Ridge to ensure that burning remains within the fire perimeter.

August 26, 2020 at 8:01 AM

Crews continued to hold and monitor spotting in the 2013 Butler Burn scar near Horn Creek Gap area, which tends to be a buffer, however, flammable timber stringers in the vicinity, remain a concern. By end of shift crews were able to box in a 100-acre spot fire near the 40 road. Weather permitting crews will continue firing on the southern portion of High Point Ridge. The prep work already completed on the southern portion of High Point Ridge will provide good access to the tactical burn operation, as firing conditions improve.  The California Interagency Incident Management Team 4 will be transferring command over to the Great Basin Incident Management Team 5 at 6 p.m. tonight.  

The virtual townhall meeting that was streamed Aug. 25 is posted on the Red Salmon Complex Facebook page.  YOU DO NOT NEED A FACEBOOK ACCOUNT TO WATCH.  Please click on this link: https://www.facebook.com/106757614477383/videos/3855799491102002/ 

Red Fire: Crews are maintaining the footprint of the Red Cap section in the northwest area of the fire, crews will continue to monitor, patrol and mop-up hot spots. The strategic firing operation along High Point Ridge will continue as conditions permit. From Soldier Trail up Devils Backbone crews are cutting indirect line, eventually meeting up with crews from the northern end of Devils Backbone working their way south.  The contingency lines on Hoteling Ridge on the east side of the fire is complete, crews continue to improve contingency lines on Hopkins Ridge to the west.  

Salmon Fire: This fire remains within its current footprint. Islands of vegetation inside this area, will continue to burn. These are not threatening containment lines.   

The Red and Salmon Fires are burning on the Klamath, Six Rivers, and Shasta-Trinity National Forests.  California Interagency Incident Management Team 4 is working closely with the Hoopa Valley Tribe, the Yurok and Karuk Tribes and local community liaisons.  

Weather: Today, storm clouds may form during the afternoon into evening hours. Temperatures will range from 91-96 degrees mid slope and 81-85 degrees on the upper slopes. Drier conditions are expected with relative humidity at 25-30% below 4,000 feet and 22-27% above. Winds will push east at 2-4 mph until around 12 p.m. then shift west at 4-6 mph with gust to 12 mph.  

Air Quality: Smoke will continue as islands of fuel are consumed within fire control lines; other fires within the state are adding to local & current smoke amounts. Refer to fires.airfire.org/outlooks/NWCalifornia  

August 25, 2020 at 7:55 PM

Crews completed ½ mile of firing on the southern portion of High Point Ridge, it is steep and slow going, this afternoon crews were held up as adverse winds required them to stop.  The prep work already completed here will provide good access to the tactical burn operation, as firing conditions improve.  This afternoon, crews and air support are working some spot fires in the Horn Creek Gap area, air resources and ground crews are responding. The fire activity is spotting in the 2013 Butler Burn scar, which tends to be a buffer, however, flammable timber stringers in the vicinity, remain a concern.  The California Interagency Incident Management Team 4 will be transferring command over to the Great Basin Incident Management Team 5 at 6 pm tomorrow.  

To review a recording of today’s virtual meeting, a video will be posted on Facebook.  YOU DO NOT NEED A FACEBOOK ACCOUNT TO WATCH.  Please click on this link: https://www.facebook.com/106757614477383/videos/3855799491102002/ 

Red Fire: Crews are maintaining the footprint of the Red Cap section in the northwest area of the fire, crews will continue to monitor, patrol and mop-up hot spots. The strategic firing operation along High Point Ridge will continue as conditions permit. From Soldier Trail up Devils Backbone crews are cutting indirect line, eventually meeting up with crews from the northern end of Devils Backbone working their way south.  The contingency lines on Hoteling Ridge on the east side of the fire is complete, crews continue to improve contingency lines on Hopkins Ridge to the west.  

Salmon Fire: This fire remains within its current footprint. Islands of vegetation inside this area, will continue to burn. These are not threatening containment lines.   

The Red and Salmon Fires are burning on the Klamath, Six Rivers, and Shasta-Trinity National Forests.  California Interagency Incident Management Team 4 is working closely with the Hoopa Valley Tribe, the Yurok and Karuk Tribes and local community liaisons.  

Weather: Tonight, partly cloudy with smokey conditions. Temperatures will range from 60-65 degrees mid slope and 64-69 degrees on the upper slopes. Drier conditions are expected with relative humidity at 40-55% mid slope and 40-50% on the ridges. Winds will be from the southwest until around 10 p.m. then shifting easterly at 4-6 mph.  

Air Quality: Smoke will continue as islands of fuel are consumed within fire control lines; other fires within the state are adding to local & current smoke amounts. Refer to fires.airfire.org/outlooks/NWCalifornia  

August 24, 2020 at 8:31 PM

Today, adverse wind conditions impeded tactical firing operation along High Point Ridge. Along the southwestern edge, crews were successful in firing up to a mile at the intersect of Pack Saddle Ridge and Horse Trail, keeping fire even with the advancing southern edge of the fire. The Red Flag warning remains in effect for tonight with the potential for dry lightning and thunderstorms.   

You are invited to the Red Salmon Complex Virtual Community Meeting, Tuesday, August 25, 2020 @ 5:00 pm, live streamed via the Red Salmon Complex Facebook page. Visit https://www.facebook.com/Red-Salmon-Complex-106757614477383/ 

Red Fire: The number one priority on the fire remains maintaining the footprint of the Red Cap section in the northwest area of the fire, crews will continue to monitor, patrol and mop-up hot spots. Lines are holding and maintaining their current footprint from Salmon Summit Trail to South Fork of Red Cap and from Mill Creek Gap to Blacks Lakes. The contingency lines on Hoteling Ridge on the east side of the fire is complete, crews continue to improve contingency lines on Hopkins to the west.  

Salmon Fire: This fire remains within its current footprint. Islands of vegetation inside this area, will continue to burn. These are not threatening containment lines.   

The Red and Salmon Fires are burning on the Klamath, Six Rivers, and Shasta-Trinity National Forests.  California Interagency Incident Management Team 4 is working closely with the Hoopa Valley Tribe, the Yurok and Karuk Tribes and the Community Liaison for Forks of Salmon. 

Weather: A red flag warning remains in effect tonight, with the threat of possible isolated thunderstorms. Temperatures across the fire area will range from the mid to upper 60’s. Relative humidity’s are predicted to be 25-35% below 4,000 feet and 20-25% above 4,000 ft. Winds will be west and south at 3-5 mph until 10 p.m.  then moving east to northeast 4-6 mph with gusts to 10 mph through morning.   

Air Quality: Smoke, including smoke from neighboring fires, will continue to become more prominent each day around Highway 96 due to southerly winds.  Refer to fires.airfire.org/outlooks/NWCalifornia. 

August 23, 2020 at 8:05 PM

Today, crews made progress with the tactical firing operation along High Point Ridge, however it was slow going due to unfavorable winds.  Tonight, crews expect to increase burning distance as the predicted easterly winds will facilitate this action.  

Red Fire: Monitoring, patrol and mop-up of the Red Cap area in the north west area of the fire remains our number one priority and maintaining it within its’ current footprint. Fire crews working closely with resource advisor’s approval have completed a dozer and hand line from Horn Creek Gap Road working down to Nordheimer Creek and plumbed with hose lays. This will be utilized to facilitate the High Point Ridge firing operations.  Crews initiated a firing operation at the intersect of Pack Saddle Ridge and Horse Trail to keep fire in this area even with the southern edge of the fire as it advances. Residents of Nordheimer Flat and Forks of Salmon areas will experience smoke due to current weather conditions and fire operations.  

Salmon Fire: This fire remains within its current footprint. Islands of vegetation inside this area, will continue to burn. These are not threatening containment lines.   

The Red and Salmon Fires are burning on the Klamath, Six Rivers, and Shasta-Trinity National Forests.  California Interagency Incident Management Team 4 is working closely with the Hoopa Valley Tribe, the Yurok and Karuk Tribes and the Community Liaison for Forks of Salmon. 

Weather: A red flag warning is in effect for tonight into tomorrow.  Most likely thunderstorms with accompanying lightning won’t likely develop until tomorrow morning.  Relative humidity on the upper slopes and ridge tops are predicted to be at 20-25%, lower and mid slopes will be at 30-40%.  West/south west winds today will gradually shift to easterly winds tonight and into the morning from 5-10 mph.  Temperatures will be in the mid to upper 60’s. 

Air Quality:Smoke can be expected later in the day due to the tactical firing operation. Refer to fires.airfire.org/outlooks/NWCalifornia. 

Closures: The Red Salmon Fire Forest Closure became effective on August 8, 2020. As hunting seasons open, hunters are reminded the closure is in place for their safety as well as the safety of firefighters. The full Forest Closure Order can be found on Inciweb. inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6891 

August 21, 2020 at 10:20 PM

Today, tactical firing operations anchoring off the Salmon Fire from Highpoint Ridge began. Fire managers made the best use of resources aiming for the highest probability of success to conduct this operation.  This planned and well-coordinated effort utilized established containment lines along the ridge. The intent of this action is to keep the fire from lining up in drainages and spreading to the east or potentially throwing embers across the line.  Fire Manager’s intent is to merge fire westward into the confined fire footprint.  This operation will take several days to accomplish.  Smoke production will increase through the area.  Fire crews are working closely with resource advisors protecting cultural and natural resources.  California Interagency Incident Management Team 4 is working closely with Native American Tribes in all fire suppression efforts. 

Red Fire: Monitoring, patrol and mop-up of the Red Cap area on the north west area of the fire remains our number one priority.  The second priority was today’s tactical firing operation.  Although progress was slow, due to battling winds, it did gain some depth. Two miles of hose line has been laid on Highpoint Ridge with additional hoselays planned, in preparation for more tactical firing. A 20-acre spot fire over Nordheimer Creek was located within the interior of the fire and air ships were used to slow down the fire’s progression. Crews continue to monitor the fire that came over Devil’s backbone yesterday.   

Salmon Fire: This fire remains within its current footprint. However, islands of vegetation inside this area, will continue to burn. These are not threatening containment lines.   

Weather: Relative humidity levels will remain high tonight across all elevations. Windy conditions along ridge tops will occur. Down slope and easterly winds should occur after midnight. 

Air Quality: Westerly winds will move smoke to the east or northeast today. Smoke may be thick in valleys and canyons immediately east of the fire. Refer to fires.airfire.org/outlooks/NWCalifornia. 

August 16, 2020 at 10:05 PM

Red Fire: Fire crews were hampered today by gusty winds possibly due to strong and erratic winds from thunderstorms in and around the fire. All fire lines held, although a few spot fires were detected west of Packsaddle Ridge. The spots were successfully lined and will be closely monitored. Operations tonight will again focus on strengthening lines along the western edge of the fire as weather allows. This area continues to be a priority due to the resource values located to the west of the fire. Work here is proceeding carefully due to the rugged topography and dry condition of fuels.

The spot fire which started near Prospect Peak is now estimated at 386 acres. Crews working in coordination with resource advisors are utilizing the 04 Road northeast towards Orleans Mountain as a good potential containment line. The fire was checked and slowed today using water dropping helicopters.

Salmon Fire: Several spot fires north of the Salmon Fire were found and lined today. These will be monitored to ensure they remain within the existing containment lines. The remainder of lines around the main fire held. This fire and the Red Fire will eventually burn together and in some areas already have.

Weather: Some light cumulus clouds have formed around the area as instability in the air mass slowly increases. A threat of thunderstorms continues through this evening. Relative humidity will increase slightly compared to the last several evenings.

August 16, 2020 at 8:23 AM

The Red Salmon Complex consists of the Red and Salmon Fire located on the Six Rivers, Shasta-Trinity, and Klamath National Forests. All fires are being managed for full suppression utilizing minimum impact suppression techniques.

Red Fire: The fire continues to burn within established containment lines. Last night firefighters were successful with burning operations increasing and strengthening lines on the northwest and western portion of the fire. Active fire behavior today will again produce smoke visible from the surrounding areas. Crews will focus on reinforcing lines especially those on the northwest and west side of the fire from Mill Creek Gap to Blacks Lake. Protection efforts for historical and cultural sites around Salmon Summit and High Point Trail Head will continue.

The spot fire near Prospect Peak east of the Red Fire grew yesterday as the very steep and rugged terrain continues to challenge firefighters. Today’s efforts will be directed toward establishing containment lines along Whiteys Ridge and utilizing the 04 road along the old Butler Fire to halt movement toward the northwest. Aircraft will again be used to support crews on the ground and cool hot spots as needed.

Salmon Fire: With containment at 79 percent, fire activity will remain minimal as crews continue mop-up operations. The strategy is for this fire and the Red Fire to burn together along the northwest corner of the Salmon Fire.

Weather: A Red Flag Warning will be in effect for the fire and surrounding areas due to expected abundant lighting. Little or no precipitation is expected. A strong high pressure system persists over the region causing low valley inversions and smoke settling in area drainages and valleys. Cloud cover could occur over the fire and surrounding area will result in slightly cooler temperatures and slightly higher humidity.

August 15, 2020 at 8:56 PM

The Red Salmon Complex consist of the Red and Salmon Fire located on the Six Rivers, Shasta-Trinity, and Klamath National Forests. All fires are being managed for full suppression utilizing minimum impact suppression techniques.  

Red Fire: The fire continues to spread, however, remains within containment lines of the west, south, and east boundaries. Within the west containment lines short uphill runs in the undercover with occasional single tree torching as it moved towards Packsaddle Ridge. Fire behavior on the north and east flanks was moderate creeping and flanking. Unmanned Aircraft Systems (drones) were used in the Mill Creek, Red Cap Creek, and Black Mountain areato strategically ignite low intensity fires to consume unburned fuels between containment lines and the main fire. Crews may conduct firing operations along the western edge tonight if conditions allow.    

The spot fire 1.5 miles east of the Red fire became more active throughout the day and was visible along the Salmon River corridor. Firefighters supported by aircraft will be building containment lines where it is safe. Plans are to keep the spot fire in as small of an area as possible.     

Salmon Fire: Fire activity should be minimal tonight allowing crews to continue mop-up operations along the burned area and prepping the line heading south for future burning operations.     

Weather: A Red Flag Warning will be in effect for the fire and surrounding areas due to expected abundant lighting. Little or no precipitation is expected. A strong high pressure is still over the region causing low valley inversions and smoke settling in area drainages and valleys. Sunday may bering some high cloud cover at times, otherwise little change from today.   

Air quality:    The massive high-pressure system in the area may result in more smoke in the valleys creating unhealthy morning air conditions. Refer to fires.airfire.org/outlooks/NWCalifornia. 

Closures: The Red-Salmon Fire Complex Forest Closure became effective on August 8, 2020. The full Forest Closure Order can be found on Inciweb. inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6891 

August 13, 2020 at 8:07 PM

The Red Salmon Complex is 10,209 acres and 34% contained. The Red and Salmon fires are burning in the Trinity Alps Wilderness on the Six Rivers and Shasta-Trinity National Forests. Both fires are being managed for full suppression utilizing minimum impact suppression techniques in the wilderness and working with resource advisors to protect cultural values.

Red Fire: The fire is 9,399 acres and 19% contained. Firing operations continued today on the northwest and west flanks. Crews will finish burning tonight from Black Mountain west to the South Fork of Red Cap Creek and from the 9N31 Road to Mill Creek Gap, tying in the northwest corner. These firing operations are gaining depth along indirect containment lines, slowly backing downhill toward the main body of the fire. The east flank of the fire is holding and firing operations from earlier in the week continue to back toward the main fire.

The fire near Prospect Peak on the Klamath National Forest is 1.5 miles from the east flank of the Red Fire, approximately 10 acres in size, creeping and smoldering, and holding at China Creek. A crew was able to hike in today to begin suppression efforts. Helicopters will be doing bucket work this evening as conditions allow.

Salmon Fire: The fire is 807 acres and 79% contained and holding within containment lines. Interior pockets of unburned fuels will continue to be consumed. Firefighters are prepping indirect lines from Salmon Mountain down to Devils Backbone to begin firing operations in the next couple days.

Weather: Warmer and dryer weather is expected through the night with an inversion layer settling over the area.

August 13, 2020 at 9:39 AM

The Red Salmon Complex is 10,178 acres and 35% contained. The Red and Salmon fires are burning in the Trinity Alps Wilderness on the Six Rivers and Shasta-Trinity National Forests. Both fires are being managed for full suppression utilizing minimum impact suppression techniques in the wilderness and working with resource advisors to protect cultural values. California Interagency Incident Management Team 4 has taken management of the fire as of 6:00 pm yesterday evening. 

Red Fire: The fire is 9,376 acres and 19% contained. Yesterday, there was little growth on the south flank.  Today, crews will strengthen line on the west flank of the fire and continue firing operations as conditions allow. Firing operations are holding and backing downhill toward the fire from Mill Creek Gap to 9N31. This fire eventually will connect on the northern perimeter near the South Fork of Red Cap Creek and Black Mountain. The north flank continues to hold. The east flank of the fire held overnight but could show more activity today as fuels dry and winds align with the terrain.  

There was a heat signature found near Prospect Peak on the Klamath National Forest approximately 1.5 miles from the east flank of the Red Fire. A crew was able to hike in and scout it out yesterday. The fire has grown to approximately 25 acres in size. More firefighters will be inserted today to assist with suppression efforts. Smoke Jumpers are ordered; however, a smoke inversion has limited the ability for them access to the fire.  

Salmon Fire: The fire is 802 acres and 89% contained. There is containment line all the way around the fire. Mop-up and patrol operations will continue. Fire will continue to smolder and burn interior unburned fuel. 

Weather: Conditions will be warmer and drier today, but also more stable as high pressure approaches late this afternoon. Winds will be out of the northwest. There is a threat of thunderstorms this weekend. 

August 11, 2020 at 8:48 AM

The Red Salmon Complex is 8,138 acres and 35% contained. The Jones Point Fire will be transitioning back to the Hoopa Valley Tribe at 6:00 pm tonight. The Red and Salmon fires are burning in the Trinity Alps Wilderness on the Six Rivers and Shasta-Trinity National Forests. All three fires are being managed for full suppression. Firing operations will pick up today around both the Red and Salmon fires, this combined with continued interior burning will produce more smoke throughout the entirety of the fire. 

Red Fire: The fire is 7,234 acres and 17% contained. Fire behavior is expected to stay active in pockets of unburned fuel with group tree torching and short up-slope runs. Increased smoke production is expected in areas where firing operations will be conducted to tie in with the main body of the fire. The fire pushed the line along Packsaddle Ridge and crews successfully caught several slopovers while they worked to keep firing operations ahead of the progressing fire.  

Crews will bring fire along the western edge of the Red Fire heading toward Mill Creek Gap. This fire eventually will connect on the northern perimeter near the South Fork of Red Cap Creek and Black Mountain. From the North Fork of Mill Creek, crews are firing south along Pack Saddle Ridge. Previous firing operations are beginning to connect to the main body of the fire and provide greater security for containment lines. 

Salmon Fire: This fire is 767 acres and 89% contained. There is containment line all the way around the fire. Crews connected firing operations from the north to the Salmon Fire and will be burning from Salmon Mountain south to widen the depth of containment line. Mop-up and patrol operations will continue around the fire cleaning up areas of heat and ensuring containment lines hold. 

Jones Point Fire: The Jones Point Fire is 137 acres and 75% contained. Last night, firefighters patrolled the line for heat. Today, mop-up operations will progress, focusing on isolated heat located with infrared flight over the fire last night.  

Weather: Moderate instability will remain today as a weak upper low pressure begins to drift over the fire area. Today, temperatures will cool by about 5 degrees; however, a drier air mas will arrive bringing a slight increase in humidity.  

Air quality: Heavy low-level smoke continues to drain into valley bottoms near the fire area and along the Bigfoot Highway affecting Orleans, Weitchpec, Hoopa and other communities in this region. These areas are expected to see periods of Unhealthy air quality with improving conditions late in the day. Westerly winds yesterday drifted higher level smoke east of the fire affecting communities such as Etna. These west winds remain today and smoke impacts in the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups are expected for Etna and the Scott Valley today. Higher level smoke and haze is being transported far the northeast.  

An air resource advisor is providing daily smoke forecasts and air quality information. Refer to fires.airfire.org/outlooks/NWCalifornia. 

Closures: The Red-Salmon Fire Complex Forest Closure takes effect on August 8, 2020. All National Forest System roads within the Red-Salmon Fire Complex Closure Area are closed as well as: Forest Road Nos. 07N53 (Grizzly Camp), 07N15 (Fawn Ridge), 10N05 (Upper Leary Creek), 10N01 (Trinity Summit), and 07N10 (Lone Pine Ridge). All National Forest System trails within the Red-Salmon Fire Complex Closure Area are closed as well as: Forest Trail Nos. 6E04 (Orleans Mt Trail), 5438 (Nordheimer), 12W08 (East Fork New River), and 12W02 (Salmon Summit). Big Rock River Access.  

August 10, 2020 at 8:31 AM

The Red Salmon Complex is 7,031 acres and 30% contained. A red flag warning is in effect over the fire area because of high temperatures and unstable air aloft. The Jones Point fire located on the Hoopa Valley Reservation, southwest of the Red and Salmon Fire, started August 8 and has been added to the complex. The Red and Salmon fires are burning in the Trinity Alps Wilderness on the Six Rivers and Shasta-Trinity National Forests. All three fires are being managed for full suppression.

Red Fire: With significant fire weather forecasted, the possibility of long-range spotting and short-duration crown runs exists. Fire behavior has been moderated over the past week as an inversion held in place. That inversion has weakened, increasing the possibility that communities will see an increased smoke column from the Red Fire. The fire is 6,146 acres and 14% contained. Along the northern edge, firefighters have strengthened and improved the line from Black Mountain to Salmon Summit Trailhead as well as built black line from Black Mountain west utilizing strategic firing operations. These burns have created a barrier that will be used to stop the progression of the fire. The west edge of the fire is holding, and crews are monitoring and patrolling. Firefighters will be firing from the confluence of the forest boundaries near Salmon Mountain and taking fire south toward the Salmon Fire with the goal of tying the two fires together.Crews brought fire along the western edge of the Red Fire heading north from the North Fork of Mill Creek toward Forest Road 9N31. This fire eventually will connect to the northern perimeter near the South Fork of Red Cap Creek and Black Mountain. From the North Fork of Mill Creek, crews are firing south along Pack Saddle Ridge.

Salmon Fire: This fire is 759 acres and 70% contained. Crews will strengthen containment lines today as well as construct hose lays along Backbone Ridge heading south. The hose lays will be used to secure firing operations when the opportunity presents itself.

Jones Point Fire: Firefighters have built containment line around the 126-acre Jones Point Fire and will work on mopping up any remaining heat sources today. Crews worked throughout the night to contain the fire and resources will be reassigned to other areas as needed.

Weather: A red flag warning has been issued over the fire area for increased temperatures, low relative humidity and unstable air. The combination of factors could lead to increased fire behavior and a more noticeable smoke column than has been seen in recent days.

Air quality: Smoky conditions are forecast across the area today as large fire growth may occur. Early in the day expect drainage bottoms, especially along the Highway 96 corridor between Willow Creek and Somes Bar, to experience increased smoke impacts. In the afternoon, ventilation is anticipated to improve as winds increase and shift. Areas southeast of the fire may see increased smoke levels in the afternoon and overnight. An air resource advisor is providing daily smoke forecasts and air quality information. Refer to fires.airfire.org/outlooks/NWCalifornia.

Closures: The Red-Salmon Fire Complex Forest Closure takes effect on August 8, 2020. All National Forest System roads within the Red-Salmon Fire Complex Closure Area are closed as well as: Forest Road Nos. 07N53 (Grizzly Camp), 07N15 (Fawn Ridge), 10N05 (Upper Leary Creek), 10N01 (Trinity Summit), and 07N10 (Lone Pine Ridge). All National Forest System trails within the Red-Salmon Fire Complex Closure Area are closed as well as: Forest Trail Nos. 6E04 (Orleans Mt Trail), 5438 (Nordheimer), 12W08 (East Fork New River), and 12W02 (Salmon Summit). Big Rock River Access.

August 9, 2020 at 8:28 PM

The Red Salmon Complex 5,977 acres and 30% contained. A red flag warning is in effect through tomorrow over the fires area. Today, California Interagency Incident Management Team 14 has taken management of the Jones Point fire located on the Hoopa Valley Reservation, southwest of the Red and Salmon Fire. The Red and Salmon fires are burning in the Trinity Alps Wilderness on the Six Rivers and Shasta-Trinity National Forests. The Jones Point Fire is burning on the Hoopa Valley Reservation. All three fires are being managed for full suppression.

Red Fire: Fire activity was moderate today. The fire is 5,218 acres and 14% contained. Today, crews made significant progress along the fire’s northern edge through strategic firing operations which put fire on the ground and cleaned up unburned fuel along the line from Black Mountain west along Lubbs Trail and Forest Road 10N01 to the Salmon Summit Trailhead. From there they worked to connect firing operations with the Salmon Fire to just south of Salmon Mountain. These firing operations are backing down from containment lines to the main fire. Crews continue to strengthen indirect contingency lines. On the west side of the fire, crews focused on cleaning up the line and more firing operations along Packsaddle Ridge north of the North Fork of Mill Creek. Firing operations on the north and west sides of the fire will eventually be tied together forming a solid containment line to hold the fire.

Salmon Fire: This fire is 759 acres and 70% contained. Today, crews strengthened containment lines around Salmon Mountain and worked to connect lines around the southwest corner of the fire. The fire is staying within its current footprint as any activity comes from unburned pockets of fuel within containment lines.

Jones Point Fire: The Jones Point Fire started August 8 on the Hoopa Valley Reservation just north of Willow Creek, CA. This fire is a human caused wildfire. It is 132 acres. Crews have line around the entirety of the fire. The line is a mix of dozer line, handline and wet line. This fire has been taken under the command of the team and is part of the Red Salmon Complex. Tonight, crews will work to build more line and improve existing containment lines.

Weather: A red flag warning has been issued over the fire area through Monday evening for increased temperatures and low relative humidity. Tonight, humidity levels will remain low in the Red and Salmon fire areas while Jones Point will see increased humidity.

August 8, 2020 at 8:07 PM

As predicted, hotter and drier weather over the Red Salmon Complex today brought an increase in fire activity and increased burning in unburned pockets of the fires. A red flag warning has been issued for tomorrow and Monday in area. The complex – the Red and Salmon fires – totals 4,620 acres and is 12% contained. These fires were discovered July 27, lightning caused, burning in the Trinity Alps Wilderness on the Six Rivers and Shasta-Trinity National Forests. Crews are utilizing minimum impact suppression techniques in the wilderness as well as control lines from past fires outside the wilderness as contingency lines. A new forest closure went into effect today.

Red Fire: The fire is 3,869 acres and 5% contained. Crews made significant progress along the fire’s northern edge through strategic firing operations earlier today. Firefighters have been able to put fire on the ground from just east of Black Mountain heading west along Lubbs Trail and Forest Road 10N01 to the Salmon Summit Trailhead. From there they’ve turned south and are working to connect the firing operations with the Salmon Fire to just south of Salmon Mountain. These firing operations are bolstering containment lines to prevent fire from spreading across it.

Salmon Fire: This fire is 751 acres and 29% contained. The fire is holding along lines in the Eightmile Creek drainage and Backbone Ridge. Crews worked to bolster lines along Salmon Summit Ridge and the fire is staying within its current footprint.

Weather: Tonight, relative humidity will remain low with higher nighttime temperatures. A red flag warning has been issued over the fire area starting tomorrow though Monday for increased temperatures and low relative humidity.

Air quality: Smoke is expected to be worse near the fire, with overnight and morning smoke accumulating in drainage bottoms. An air resource advisor is providing daily smoke forecasts and air quality information. Refer to fires.airfire.org/outlooks/NWCalifornia.

Closures: The Red-Salmon Fire Complex Forest Closure takes effect on August 8, 2020. All National Forest System roads within the Red-Salmon Fire Complex Closure Area are closed as well as: Forest Road Nos. 07N53 (Grizzly Camp), 07N15 (Fawn Ridge), 10N05 (Upper Leary Creek), 10N01 (Trinity Summit), and 07N10 (Lone Pine Ridge). All National Forest System trails within the Red-Salmon Fire Complex Closure Area are closed as well as: Forest Trail Nos. 6E04 (Orleans Mt Trail), 5438 (Nordheimer), 12W08 (East Fork New River), and 12W02 (Salmon Summit). Big Rock River Access.

August 8, 2020 at 2:28 PM

Crews are progressing into more rugged and logistically difficult terrain with assistance from aircraft. Firefighters continue to construct line along the eastern and northern edges of the fire as well as prep structures. Mop-up operations are taking place along the western portion of the fire. A CalFire structure assessment team is assigned to the incident and they are conducting an survey of the affected area over the next few days.

Recommended Evacuations: Area 2B (Thompson Canyon) Caliente Bodfish Road east to Piute Mountain Road, from the area south of School Street to just south of Heritage Way and Area 4 (Valley View) Saddle Springs Road/Piute Mountain Road as it goes near the following areas: Burton Mill, Clear Creek, Cold Spring, Liebel Peak, Piute Peak, Piute Spring, Rocky Point, and Saddle Spring.

Precautionary Evacuations: Area 2A (Piute Meadows) Dailey Road east to the west end of Golden Spur, between the top of Indian Oak Loop south to Williams Road and Williams Road south to Walker Basin Road, between Johns Road east to the east end of Douglas Avenue. Evacuations were lifted from Area’s 1 & 3.

Road Closure: Thompson Canyon Road east of the cattle guard, approximately 1/4 mile east of Gossip Rock.

A Temporary Evacuation Point continues to be available at the parking lot of the former K-Mart at 710 West Tehachapi Blvd in Tehachapi, CA or call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767)

August 7, 2020 at 11:33 AM

Firefighters are using direct containment strategies and strengthening indirect lines in the wilderness using minimum impact suppression techniques while continuing to work with resource advisors to avoid disturbance to cultural resources. Firefighters are also opening and strengthening previously constructed control lines from past fires outside the wilderness as contingency lines. California Interagency Incident Management Team 14 continues to make COVID-19 precautions a priority at all incident camps with daily temperature screenings of personnel and implementing measures such as wearing face coverings and social distancing to prevent coronavirus spread. Community and firefighter safety are a top priority of both the incident management team and the national forests.

The Red Fire is 3,536 acres and 0% contained. The fire is backing down slope toward Red Cap Creek to the west. Last night crews conducted firing operations along Lubbs Trail and the 10N01 road and then continued south along the Salmon Summit Ridge toward Salmon Mountain. An unmanned aircraft system equipped with an ignition apparatus was utilized to help gain more depth along control lines, further reducing fuels along indirect fireline making it more secure as fire approaches.

The Salmon Fire is 748 acres and 7% contained. The fire is spreading south, backing toward control lines in the Eightmile Creek drainage. Firefighters finished fireline construction on the southwest flank from Backbone Ridge down to Eightmile Creek. Crews further strengthened lines along Salmon Summit Ridge and have inserted hose lays from Salmon Summit Ridge down toward Eightmile Creek. Current weather and past fire footprints are helping to reduce the fire spread.

Weather: Temperatures remained cool overnight with higher relative humidity, aiding firefighting efforts.High pressure will begin building today, bringing drier air and lower relative humidity through the weekend.

Air quality: An air resource advisor is providing daily smoke forecasts and air quality information for thesurrounding communities. Refer to fires.airfire.org/outlooks/NWCalifornia.

Closures: Big Rock River Access has been closed in the interest of public safety as it is being used as adip site for helicopter operations in the fire suppression efforts on the Red Salmon Complex.

August 5, 2020 at 8:55 PM

The Red Salmon Complex is 3,920 acres and 5% contained burning within the Trinity Alps Wilderness on the Six Rivers and Shasta-Trinity National Forests. Firefighters made progress with suppression operations today, utilizing direct containment strategies and strengthening indirect lines in the wilderness using minimum impact suppression techniques and continuing to work with resource advisors to avoid disturbance to cultural resources. Firefighters are opening previously constructed control lines from past fires outside the wilderness as contingency lines. California Interagency Incident Management Team 14 continues to make COVID-19 precautions a priority at all incident camps with daily screening of personnel and implementing recommended measures to prevent coronavirus spread. Community and firefighter safety are a top priority of both the incident management team and the national forests.

The Red Fire is 3,178 acres and 0% contained. The fire is backing in most areas with some small group torching and short, terrain-driven runs. Tonight, crews are utilizing an Unmanned Aircraft System capable of aerial ignition to conduct firing operations on the north flank of the fire along the Lubbs Trail and the 10N01 road. This further reduces fuels along the indirect fireline making it more secure for when fire approaches.

The Salmon Fire is 742 acres and 5% contained. The fire had little growth today, allowing firefighters to build direct fireline on both the southwest and southeast flanks joining at Eightmile Creek. Firefighters also strengthened lines along Salmon Summit Ridge and started hose lays from Salmon Summit Ridge down towards Eightmile Creek. Current weather and past fire footprints are helping to reduce the fire spread at this time.

Weather: A weak low pressure held over the area bringing slightly cooler temperatures and higher relative humidity today which will persist through the night. A drying trend is expected to begin tomorrow through the weekend.

Air quality: An air quality monitoring specialist is providing daily smoke forecasts and air quality information for the surrounding communities. Refer to fires.airfire.org/outlooks/NWCalifornia.

Closures: Big Rock River Access has been closed in the interest of public safety as it is being used as a dip site for helicopter operations in the fire suppression efforts on the Red Salmon Complex.

August 3, 2020 at 8:25 PM

The Red Salmon Complex burning in the Six Rivers and Shasta-Trinity national forests is 2,748 acres and 0% contained. Both fires are burning in steep, rugged terrain, with limited access within the Trinity Alps Wilderness. Air operations continue to support crews on the ground as visibility and smoke conditions allow. Today, crews strengthened indirect line utilizing existing trail systems, roads, and ridgelines using minimum impact suppression tactics in the wilderness and working with resource advisors to avoid disturbance to cultural resources.

The Red Fire is 2,070 acres and 0% contained. Crews began firing operations on the north flank of the fire along the Lubbs Trail and the 10N01 road near Salmon Summit to secure that portion of the line. Firefighters also built more indirect line and put hose lays in place to the southeast along Salmon Summit Ridge to Salmon Mountain. All flanks are still active at a moderate rate of spread backing in all directions with short uphill runs. 

The Salmon Fire is 678 acres and 0% contained. The fire remains in the footprint of previous fires, but still has some potential for growth. Handcrews started direct attack operations on the south flank of the fire starting at Salmon Summit Ridge and scouting missions along Backbone Ridge to attempt containment and hold the fire where it currently sits. Crews began indirect line reinforcement along Backbone Ridge and will progress down to Pack Saddle Ridge and begin north towards Black Mountain to tie into the Red Fire.

Weather: Humidity will rise this evening with slightly cooler temperatures.  A low pressure system is developing off the coast to bring possible thunderstorms to the early this week.

August 2, 2020 at 8:15 PM

The Red Salmon Complex burning in the Six Rivers and Shasta Trinity national forest is 1,876 acres and 0% contained. Fire behavior on the Red Fire has been backing in all directions at a moderate rate of spread. Today, crews focused on reinforcing and building control lines on both fires utilizing minimum impact suppression tactics in the wilderness. Smoke settling over both fires limited air support operations throughout the day. An air quality monitoring specialist will continue to provide daily smoke forecasts and air quality information for the surrounding communities.

The Red Fire is 1,251 acres and 0% contained. Crews made access onto the Lubb Trail continuing line reinforcement as well as firing operations to strengthen the control line while progressing west toward the 10N01 forest road. Line reinforcement was completed on the10N01 road up to Salmon Summit Ridge. Firefighters continued indirect line southeast down to Indian Rocks along Salmon Summit Ridge

August 1, 2020 at 8:09 PM

The Red Fire grew as it backed downslope to the west toward the Middle Fork of Red Cap Creek and pushing to the north towards the 10N01 Road at Salmon Summit. Crews are preparing the 10N01 Forest Road system towards Lubbs Trail as a control line and are continuing to strengthen and improve old control lines on the Salmon Summit Ridgeline to the south toward Whiteys Peak and progressing to Salmon Mountain. Firefighters continued scouting operations looking for opportunities to place control lines from Black Mountain to the south toward Pack Saddle Ridge.

The Salmon Fire continued to burn at primarily low intensity in ground fuels with some short range spotting in an old burn scar near the Salmon Summit Ridge but did not cross any control lines. Firefighters worked to improve and strengthen control line along Salmon Summit ridge to the south and southeast toward Rock Lake and Megram Ridge.

August 1, 2020 at 9:49 AM

The Red Salmon Complex continues to burn in the Six Rivers and Shasta Trinity National Forests. The Complex is currently at 1,060 acres and 0% contained. Additional firefighters and resources continue to arrive to assist with suppressing both the Red and Salmon Fires. Helicopter operations continue to assist ground crews in fire attack operations.

The Red Fire continues to grow in size by backing downslope to the west towards the Middle Fork of Red Cap Creek and expanding to the north towards the 10N01 Road at Salmon Summit. Crews are working along the 10N01 Road system towards the Lubbs Trail. They are preparing this road as a control line as the fire moves in this direction. Firefighters continue to scout for opportunities to place control lines from the Black Mountain area to the South towards Pack Saddle Ridge. Crews continue to strengthen and improve old control lines on the Salmon Summit Ridgeline to the South towards Whiteys Peak and progressing to Salmon Mountain.

The Salmon Fire continues to burn at primarily low intensity with some short range spotting near the Salmon Summit Ridge. Firefighters has been improving control lines along this ridgeline and have been able to contain the spot fires and hold the fire at the ridge. Crews are working to prepare and strengthen control lines along the Salmon Summit ridgeline to the Southeast towards Rock Lake.

A high pressure system is moving into the area which is predicted to create an inversion. This predicted weather will supply dry air conditions with poor humidity recovery as well as the possibility of smoke laying down over the fire area.

July 31, 2020 at 9:25 AM

The Red Salmon Complex continues to burn in remote wilderness areas of the Six Rivers and Shasta Trinity National Forests. This Complex includes both the Salmon Fire and the Red Fire which currently are a combined total of 1,060 acres and 0% containment.

Firefighters are using a full suppression strategy and utilizing indirect fire attack methods to gain control of both fires. A combination of both ground crews and air resources are being used due to the rugged terrain and challenging access. Multiple helicopters with water bucket drops are supporting ground operations. A helibase is now operational in Willow Creek to provide helicopters with a quicker response to the fire areas.

The Red Fire is currently 516 acres. Firefighters are currently working from Salmon Summit to the south along the ridgelines to open up previous fire containment lines. Crews continue to look for control line opportunities on the west side of the fire.

The Salmon Fire is currently 544 acres. Fire crews continue to strengthen and improve the ridgeline from Salmon Mountain to Megram Ridge using previous fire control lines and previous fire scars. The fire has reached the ridge in this location and firefighters are actively holding the fire. Crews are looking for opportunities and locations to secure the southern end of the fire back to Back Done Ridge.

California Interagency Incident Management Team 14 is working actively to prevent the spread of COVID-19 through various control measures. Firefighters are screened every morning with a temperature check and health screening. Firefighters are also practicing social distancing, frequent hand washing, and wearing face coverings throughout camp and as appropriate during operations.

July 30, 2020 at 8:26 PM

Beginning tomorrow, July 31, 2020, the Big Rock River Access will be closed in the interest of public safety due to the River Access Point being used for water bucket operations by helicopters aiding in the fire suppression efforts on the Red Salmon Complex.

July 30, 2020 at 9:55 AM

California Interagency Incident Management Team 14 assumed command of the Red Salmon Complex yesterday at 6:00 p.m. This Complex includes both the Salmon Fire and the Red Fire, which were both lightning caused. The Red Salmon Complex is currently a total of 670 acres and 0% containment.

Both fires are actively burning in rugged and remote portions of the wilderness making access for firefighters difficult. A variety of helicopters will be assisting ground crews in actively working to suppress the fires.

The Salmon Fire was reported on July 27, 2020 and is located at the top of the Eightmile Creek drainage near Salmon Mountain in the Trinity Alps Wilderness portion of the Shasta-Trinity National Forest. The Salmon Fire is currently at 475 acres.

The Red Fire is located in the Red Cap drainage about a mile west of the Salmon Summit Trailhead and about a mile east of Black Mountain on the Six Rivers National Forest. The Red Fire is currently 195 acres.